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Topic: Propane Garden Torch (Read 587 times)

I know several folks have mentioned that part of your weed control is to use a torch and burn them. Which torch do you use and where would you recommend getting one? How often do you find yourself using it and was it worth the purchase?

Also, share any advice or info you would like on how and when to use it.

Off Amazon (as most things), I got the Red Dragon VT 2-23 C Weed Dragon 100,000-BTU Propane Vapor Torch Kit. My understanding is the more BTU the better at killing. I used it at the beginning of the year every month around the edge of the garden, fence line, etc. It has been a few months since using it with this heat and drought and need to run around with it again. I would run it a week or so after prepping the beds and before planting. Also, I ran it on the grass where I put new beds. I think it does a great job and works the best on just emerged weeds. I liked the way the fence line was looking. Of coarse, you have to be careful not to start fires and the propane tank does get heavy. Unfortunately, it did not work so well for me on the weeds in the concrete cracks. They must have evolved to super heat and drought resistant.

I have a "gopher" lawn mower, no mower deck, plastic drink case on hood which I set the propane tank in and strap it down. The torch has a automatic flame starter when I press the handle.I just ride along and torch weeds, grass or what ever at a slow pace.I like to "torch" because it will kill weeds/grass even if it rains right after I torch.

I got this one on sale for $29.99. Did a great job on the strip along the garage.

About to torch the raised beds. Will till and torch regularly, until about 3 weeks before transplanting in the seedlings. At that point, I'll turn in the sifted compost and all my amendments. By the time I transplant in, I should have control over the weeds that do come up after all the torching.

When I say "torch", I mean I'm simply gonna singe the heads of the weeds that come up. That's all it takes. My beneficials should burrow deep enough not to be hurt.

Thanks for all the help and comments. I appreciate them. I was torn between the red Dragon and the IdealGas torch that GG has. I ended up and ordered the Red Dragon with the squeeze value and longer handle. I'm not sure it's work the extra $$ though. We'll see. https://www.amazon.com/Dragon-VT-2-23-SVC-Weed/dp/B001AUPQVM

Regardless, I'll have my water hose close when I test it out next Tuesday when the burning will commence. It may not work for long, but I'll feel better about it anyway.

One reason I have not used my torch as much as I would like is that it keeps going out. It seems that when I get too close to the surface I'm torching the back pressure blows out the flame. The sweet spot is very narrow. Too far and nothing is singed too close and the flame blows out.